After Gall Bladder Removal Surgery...?

Question

Yesterday I had my gall bladder removed by laproscopy (sp?) and today I took the bandages off, showered and let the soap and water just run down the 4 incisions and then patted dry like I was told. I left the bandages off for a couple hours and just recently but them back on so I can go to sleep. 2 of the 4 incisions are red. Not bad red, just red. Is that normal? There's no red streaks or anything. Is there something that I can put on them to keep them from getting infected? I was told peroxide by some and not to by others. Same with neosporin. Does anyone know by experience??

Answer 1

I believe that is normal, you just had it done yesterday. I was told to just wash my incision, I was cut about 6 inches long which was before microscopic, and rub an alcohol pad it to clear any bacteria that may be in the area. If you want to use something to put on them, try a thin layer of good old Vaseline, then cover it. Your Surgeon should have left you instructions on what to do, but if you are having any doubts, call the Surgeons office and ask their opinion. I'm sure they will tell you it is normal, and you probably don't have to put anything on the incisions, just use an alcohol pad and wipe them, then put the bandages on. Once the incisions start to heal, your skin will turn to it's normal color of pink. Don't worry, you're fine. Best to you young lady. You'll be fully healed in about a week. Good luck.  

Answer 2

Sounds normal.  You were cut, instruments inserted then removed, the red is from irritation.  If it doesn't improve, consult your doctor.

Keeping the area clean will help prevent infection.  Using some antibiotic ointment is up to you.  

Do not use hydrogen peroxide on wounds.  

"Hydrogen peroxide was once used for cleaning wounds but research has shown it is too harsh for wound care. It kills healthy tissue, is cytotoxic, and actually delays wound healing. Unfortunately, some health professionals have not kept current on changes in wound care and still recommend H2O2

Answer 3

I had the same surgery and nothing like that happened to me.  Check with the doctor.